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 Cambodia which has a
rich culture dating back many centuries when the
Angkor Civilization was the region's most
developed area has now emerged as a very popular
tourists destination and it is now at the
frontier of tourism and has become a popular
travel destination in Southeast Asia. Cambodia's
amazing sun-drenched
beaches, enchanting scenery, diverse flora and
fauna and grand temples are among the very best in
this region and famous tourist attractions in
Cambodia are simply unique and Photo:
Royal Palace in Phnom Penh interesting
and not found anywhere else in the region.
The remarkable
places of interest in Cambodia is the main
reason why visitors travel from all over the
world to this part of the globe. The 9th century Angkorian temples have intrigued archaeologists
and fascinated tourists since being rediscovered
in 1860 and since then, this famous tourist area
has become one of the top attractions in
Cambodia. They remain one of the world's great
ancient wonders and the jewel of them all,
Angkor Wat is the world's largest religious
monument and there are few places anywhere on
earth to match the magnificence of Angkor Wat.
Some of the more popular and interesting
structures include the spectacular Angkor Wat,
Angkor Thom, Bakheng Temple, Takeo Temple, Ta
Prohm Temple, Prasat Kravan, Banteay Kdei,
Banteay Srei, Bakong Temple and Preah Ko Temple.
The famous temples in Cambodia are definitely a
'must-see' in your intenary.
 Cambodia's other
places of interest are the fascinating traditional
markets, the unspoiled white-sand beaches, the
sunset cruises on the Mekong and Tonle Sap
(Great Lake),
beautiful natural areas, the Royal Palace in
Phnom Penh and the isolated hill tribe groups.
Natural rainforests, waterfalls and wetlands
ecosystems are among the many of Cambodia's
ecotourism attractions which has become more
accessible as tourism infrastructure develops.
Phnom Penh, the
capital of Cambodia, is a gateway for tourists
and the city still retains its traditional Khmer
and colonial charm. Among the many attractions here are the Royal Palace, Silver
Pagoda, Independence Monument, Wat Phnom,
National Museum and the river front. The city
has new hotels, restaurants, lively nightclubs
and bars. Visitors to Angkor usually fly to Siem
Reap or take a boat
Silver Pagoda in Phnom Penh
across Tonle Sap, Southeast
Asia's largest freshwater lake.
Cruises on the Tonle
Sap give an insight into the daily life of the
people living on and around the rivers as well
as ecotourism opportunities such as bird
watching in the flooded forests. Siem Reap is a
small town offering good accommodation for those
visiting Angkor. With many accessible Angkorian
temples here and at nearby Roluos, tourists can
stay from one day to one week. Other famous
tourists destinations
near the town include the crocodile farm,
markets and waterwheels along the river.
 In the south, the
beaches and islands of Sihanoukville and Kep
provide relaxing gateways with low key
facilities and untouched beaches. This coastal
city is beautified by the white-sand beaches
which are known for their quiet and peaceful
atmosphere which make them popular among
families on vacations. The isolated provinces of
Mondulkiri and Rattanakiri are home to hill
tribe people whose unique lifestyles attract
adventurous travelers where visitors can enjoy
the wonderful views of the local plantations and
picturesque mountainous scenery.
Khmer dance, music
and arts are sophisticated and integrated into
contemporary life. Rice, fish, noodles and
vegetables are the basic Photo: National Museum food enjoyed by the
Cambodians and are usually obtained fresh from
the open markets. Meal can be spicy and
accompanied by fish sauce or prahok. Most
holidays are religious or related to the
monarchy. Special days are for the Royal
Ploughing Ceremony which announces the start of
the planting season, Pchum Ben Day, the King's
Birthday and the Water Festival.
The natural warmth
of the Cambodians is legendary. Wherever one
goes, the friendliness and hospitality of the
people proves to be a very special experience.
Your visit to Cambodia will definitely inspire
you to return and savor more of its tropical
beauty, ancient culture and traditional
hospitality.
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